Hey friend! Have you ever been tempted to throw in the towel and walk away from your dreams or maybe even your calling? Our guest today for Smart Girl Summer gets it (and so do I!).  As a preacher’s kid who watched her family experience deep church hurt, Natalie Runion understands the desire to walk away. Even as an adult on the other side of that, working as a worship leader and songwriter, she wrestled with wanting to quit.  Today, Natalie is still a worship leader and songwriter. She’s also a wife, a mom, a sought-after speaker, and a first-time author. Her season of wanting to walk away became the foundation for her debut book, Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away.  Whether you work in ministry or the marketplace, this conversation will encourage you to stay the course even when you want to bow out! Lean in and listen as Natalie and I talk about:    How she went from middle school gym teacher to where she is today   Why abiding in Christ is central to our perseverance    How to balance all the things without letting mom guilt overwhelm us    The surprising role failure has in our dreams    Favorite quotes:  “Ministry is wherever we are because he is in us.” “Being kind is a first form of ministry that we can offer each other.” “We are called to abide in Christ and when we abide in him even on the days we want to quit, he will still produce good fruit through us.” “As we get older we should be what we needed to the next generation.” “Christians were made to believe for the impossible.” “When we fail to fail we really don’t allow God to show up in the way he promises to do.”  Links to great things we discussed:    Natalie Runion Website   Natalie Runion Instagram   Natalie Runion Facebook    Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away    Nerds Rope Candy   Friends   The King of Queens   The Office   The Crown   Urban Decay Lip Gloss   Fast X   Sweet Love of Mine - Joy Williams   Discovery Cove   Remaining You While Raising Them   Join the Launch Team!   Hope you loved this episode! Be sure to subscribe in iTunes and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli

How to persevere  with Natalie Runion

Author, speaker, entrepreneur, and mom to five sons, Alli Worthington, hosts her show built on one simple premise- bring on people she loves, respects, and wants to learn from. You will love the fun interview-style conversations followed by coaching time, where Alli answers listener questions about faith, business, and life. Alli is also the author of Standing Strong, Breaking Busy, Fierce Faith, and The Year of Living Happy. She loves speaking at conferences about faith, business, and living life well.

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In today’s episode, I’m joined by Kimberly Stuart, a multifaceted talent—writing coach, author of eight novels, and podcaster. Alongside New York Times-bestselling author Bob Goff, she has guided hundreds of aspiring authors through executive coaching, online courses, podcasts, and live events. Kimberly’s expertise and passion for storytelling have made her a beacon for writers seeking inspiration and practical advice. In her new book, Star for Jesus (And Other Jobs I Quit): Rediscovering the Grace that Sets Us Free, Kimberly shares moments that encourage readers to embrace God's fierce love over lesser alternatives. Join us as we delve into the early days of her career, the nuances of writing fiction versus nonfiction, and her advice for aspiring authors. We also discuss the motivation needed for tough days, the failures she has faced, and the valuable lessons learned from them. Join Kimberly and I as we talk about:   The early days of her career   The differences between writing fiction vs. nonfiction   Advice if you are thinking of writing a book   Encouragement and motivation for the hard days   Failures she has faced, what she has learned from them, and how she turned them around   Favorite quotes:    “Sometimes those little tiny dreams we haven’t even put any oxygen on yet, those are the ones that we need someone else to say out loud.” (7:02 Audio)    “It makes a difference in the narrative we are telling ourselves and reminding ourselves.” (16:22 Audio)    “Failure can come when you are not looking for it.” (30:46 Audio)   Coaching this week: Self Talk  (43:25)   In coaching for this episode, I teach about our inner voice.  Sometimes, but I think more often than not, the voice in our head is mean and critical or just a downer. I want you to keep in mind that the relationship that you have with yourself is the most crucial one because that voice isn't going anywhere. If you wouldn't take that kind of talk from a friend, you don't want to take it from yourself. I'll also want you to flip it around. Would you ever talk to a friend that way? Would you talk to your best friend, your spouse, or your child in the way that you talk to yourself? Links to great things we discussed:    Kimberly Stuart Website   Kimberly Stuart Instagram    Star for Jesus (And Other Jobs I Quit) Rediscovering the Grace that Sets Us Free     Mini Steamer    Shani Darden Retinol Reform   The Great British Baking Show   Friday Night Lights    Baja Gold Mineral Sea Salt    The Joy of Movement: How exercise helps us find happiness, hope, connection, and courage   Apply for Alli’s Free Coaching   Create a Course   Alli on YouTube   Order your copy of Remaining You While Raising Them here. Hope you loved this episode!  Be sure to subscribe in iTunes and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli

The Secret Sauce of Worthwhile Work with Kimberly Stuart

Welcome to today’s episode, where I am beyond excited to chat with none other than Ruth Chou Simons. Many of you know her as the creative genius behind GraceLaced, but she is also a powerhouse businesswoman with a wealth of wisdom to share. In this episode, we're going to uncover stories you've never heard before, including insights into her latest project. Ruth's journey is filled with invaluable lessons about starting small, persevering through challenges, and growing a business with intention and heart. Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, award-winning artist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and speaker. She uses her multifaceted platform to infuse the Word of God into people's lives. Her new book, Now and Not Yet: Pressing In When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More, encourages readers to view their current situations through God's lens, aligning their perspective with His and choosing to engage deeply with their circumstances instead of seeking escape. Join us as we delve into how Ruth has grown her business, her advice for artists, the mental hurdles she's overcome as an entrepreneur, and the business advice that has stuck with her through tough times. This conversation is sure to be packed with inspiration and practical wisdom! Join Ruth and I as we talk about:   How Ruth has grown her business by starting small and slow   Ruth’s advice to artists   Mental hurdles and mindset shifts when becoming an entrepreneur   Business advice that has always stuck with Ruth   Pressing in when times are tough   Favorite quotes:    Don’t worry about somebody else’s story just press into the story that God is writing in your life right in this season.” (9:26 Audio)    “Do the next right thing for you in your business story.” (11:04 Audio)   “Press into what might be difficult but what makes your story one of a kind.” (18:07 Audio)   “God is using the very seasons that we think are wasted and the seasons that we think are not amounting to anything.” (22:00 Audio)    “We sometimes think that we have to be on the other side of our limitations, difficulties, or not-enoughness to tackle the very things that God has laid before us, but it honors the Lord when we just start where we are with what we already have.” (23:33 Audio)   Coaching this week:  Two Simple Filters for Saying Yes or No In coaching for this episode, I share that knowing when to say yes or no can be challenging, but using your top three current values and specific short-term goals as filters can help guide your decisions. By aligning opportunities with your values and goals, you ensure that you make room for what truly excites you and moves you forward in your life's purpose. Links to great things we discussed:    Ruth Chou Simons Website   Ruth Chou Simons Instagram    Now and Not Yet: Pressing In When You’re Waiting, Wanting and Restless for More   The Intern   I Set My Hope - Keith and Kristyn Getty   Unsung Hero    Primally Pure Plumping Serum    EOS Shea Better Body Cream   Old Navy Leggings   Apply for Alli’s Free Coaching   Create a Course   Alli on YouTube   Remaining You While Raising Them   Hope you loved this episode!  Be sure to subscribe to YouTube and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli

The Magic of Getting Started with Ruth Chou Simons

In today's episode of our podcast, we're diving deep into the intriguing world of Enneagram personality types with special guest Elizabeth Orr, author of The Unfiltered Enneagram: A Witty and Wise Guide to Self-Compassion. Elizabeth, who also serves as the associate chaplain for spiritual formation at Wake Forest, is here to explore the layers of our personality with a blend of humor and insight. Her book encourages us to confront and laugh at the aspects of ourselves we often keep hidden, promoting a journey toward true self-awareness and compassion. We're thrilled to have Elizabeth join us, especially given the buzz around her new release and her engaging content on the popular Rude Ass Enneagram Instagram account. Throughout this discussion, we'll cover various topics, including common misconceptions about the Enneagram, the core beliefs associated with each type, and the importance of acknowledging our shadow sides. Whether you're new to the Enneagram or looking to deepen your understanding, this conversation promises to enlighten you on embracing your full self and extending compassion to yourself and others. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of the Enneagram in fostering self-love and improved relationships. Join Elizabeth and I as we talk about:    Common pitfalls when we are first introduced to the Enneagram   Core beliefs for each Enneagram type   The shadow side of each Enneagram number   Where to start if you are new to the Enneagram   The Enneagram and self-compassion    Favorite quotes:    “One of the biggest pitfalls, no matter where you are on your journey, that can be an easy trap to fall into is identifying too much with the type you land on.” (Audio 13:00)   “Using the Enneagram as an excuse or shield for our bad behavior, and using it as a weapon against others, can be a real common pitfall.” (Audio 13:22)   “Our shadow side is our survival mechanics. It is how we try to survive in the world and perceive it. Every type has a very particular way of perceiving the world and what they believe to be true about it.” (Audio 16:00)    “Our emotional responses can tell us so much about what we think, the narrative that we believe, what we think other people’s motivations are, and what we are trying to protect within ourselves.” (Audio 20:59)    Coaching this week:  How to Rewire Your Mind for Bravery and Resilience   Before I do each coaching call, I have my clients fill out information that helps them identify their recent wins, which helps them recognize where they are experiencing growth and momentum in their lives. Embracing both smooth and challenging experiences with compassion builds confidence over time, allowing you to move forward with greater understanding and resilience. Links to great things we discussed:    Elizabeth Orr Instagram    The Unfiltered Enneagram: A Witty and Wise Guide to Self-Compassion   The Synanon Fix   Pitch Perfect    Long Run to Glory: The Story of the Greatest Marathon in Olympic History and the Women Who Made It Happen    Hoka Bondi 8   Connections   Watchman - Josh Garrels   Beyond the Blue - Josh Garrels   Farther Along - Josh Garrels    The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery   Apply for Alli’s Free Coaching   Create a Course   Alli on YouTube   Remaining You While Raising Them   Hope you loved this episode!  Be sure to subscribe to YouTube and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli  

Unlocking Enneagram Personality Types with Elizabeth Orr

I’m thrilled to have you join us in this episode as we dive into the powerful world of storytelling with my dear friend, Ally Fallon. Today, Ally will share some incredible insights into the emotional health benefits of writing our own stories. She’s here to guide us through the process of getting started and tapping into the transformative power of putting our experiences down on paper. Ally Fallon isn't just any guest; she's an accomplished author, speaker, and the founder of Find Your Voice—a community dedicated to helping people express themselves through writing. With her extensive background, including ghostwriting 11 books and authoring impactful works like The Power of Writing It Down and Indestructible, Ally brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Her latest book, Write Your Story, introduces an 8-step framework that helps anyone craft a meaningful and captivating narrative. Join us as we explore why writing matters, the unexpected benefits it holds for our spiritual, emotional, and physical health, and how you can start making yourself the hero of your own story, even if you've never written a word before. Join Ally and I as we talk about:   Why writing our story matters   Surprising spiritual, emotional, and health benefits to writing our story   Where to start if you have never written before   Making yourself the hero of your story   How to write compelling hooks     Favorite quotes:    (5:17 Audio) “The main reason writing our story matters is that the act of putting our story on paper teaches us who we are, what our life is about, what we are here for, why we matter, what makes our life so significant, and what is the most interesting thing about us. Beyond that, when we share that story it also allows us to connect with other people who are in our lives.”    (13:37 Audio) “It is really so powerful when you start to put your story down on the page. You just see it in another way.”    (15:33 Audio) “Every story is interesting if it’s told in the right way.”    (17:03 Audio) “When you know how to write a great hook, you know how to command human attention, and when you can command human attention, you can give people information that is really important to them.”    (20:45 Audio) “We have a lot more agency in resolving our stories than we think we do because most personal stories resolve when the internal problem resolves rather than the external problem.”      Coaching this week: How to Quit Letting Guilt Weigh You Down In coaching on this episode, I highlight the importance of using feelings of guilt as a gateway to deeper self-reflection, suggesting that these emotions can reveal significant underlying issues, like past unresolved experiences or current unmet needs. I encourage you to engage with guilt, using it as an opportunity to understand and address the root causes, which will ultimately help you find resolution and peace. Links to great things we discussed:    Ally Fallon Website   Ally Fallon Instagram    Write Your Story: A Simple Formula to Understand Yourself, Your Story and Your Purpose in the World   Hanging Out - Ben Rector   Only Murders in the Building    Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow   Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint   Ilia Tinted Hydrating Lip Balm   Dune: Part Two   Shōgun   Apply for Alli’s Free Coaching   Create a Course   Alli on YouTube   Remaining You While Raising Them   Hope you loved this episode!  Be sure to subscribe to YouTube and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli  

The Surprising Benefits of Writing Your Story with Ally Fallon

Welcome to today's show featuring my friend Myquillyn Smith, also known as the Nester. We're diving into a fun discussion about our homes, including a candid confession about my biggest decorating faux pas. You're about to discover what that is as we explore the intimate details of home decor. Myquillyn Smith, a bestselling author known for her books Welcome Home and Cozy Minimalist Home, has spent over fifteen years inspiring women to embrace their spaces, imperfections included, and personalize them. In her latest work, House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home, Style, and Budget, she presents a compelling collection of one hundred universal decorating truths that cater to any house, style, and budget. Join Myquillyn and I as we talk about:   Universal decorating rules   Low-budget decorating ideas   Using a We Did It list   The Trinity of Rugs, Drapes, & Lighting   Hate the Sofa, Hate the Space   Favorite quotes:    “Decorating is just as much about what we remove from a room than what we add. It isn’t about adding expensive things. It is about adding the right things.” (9:48 Audio)   “We underestimate the fact that small changes can make a huge impact.” (10:30 Audio)   “When you get the right seating surfaces and storage in your room, which most of us already have, but when we add that homey trinity for most of us our rooms magically feel 80-90% done.” (20:00 Audio)    “Find a way to not hate the biggest piece in your room and it will change the way you feel about the room.” (26:19)   Coaching this week: Keep It Simple & Take Action In coaching this week, I share that to succeed, keep it simple and take action. Overcoming the tendency to overthink and procrastinate is key; start with small steps, seek guidance if needed, and remember that progress comes from action, not endless planning. Links to great things we discussed:    Myquillyn Smith Website   Myquillyn Smith Instagram    House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home, Style, and Budget   Irish Pub Spotify Playlist   Survivor   Amazing Race   Silo   Masters of the Air   Westmore Beauty 60-Seconds Eye Effects    Cooper Straws   Zillow   Zillow Gone Wild    Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse    Ruggable Strawberry Thief Indigo Rug   Apply for Alli’s Free Coaching   Create a Course   Alli on YouTube   Remaining You While Raising Them   Hope you loved this episode!  Be sure to subscribe to YouTube and slap some stars on a review! :) xo, Alli

How to persevere with Natalie Runion

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